Parts Needed to Convert 5-Pole Vehicle Wiring to 7-Way

Question:

Hello, I have a 2001 Ford Explorer Sport Trac Manual that has a 5 way flat plug under the bumper. I just purchased a travel trailer 3,000 lbs. gross weight that has a 7 way plug. I cant seem to find an adapter that will work here in my situation. I have found 7 way round to a 4 way flat, so I guess my question is: can I use a 4 way flat to a 5 way flat to make just the lights work? Im assuming this configuration will not charge the boat battery wired with the trailer? But that is okay, just trying to haul it up to my camp on the weekends and my half ton truck has a towing capacity of up to 5,000 lbs. so I feel I should be good without hooking up the brakes, but any suggestions on that would also be welcomed. Any help would be appreciated, thank you!

asked by: Alec

Expert Reply:

4-pole trailer wiring carries only stop/turn/tail light signals. 5-pole wiring can be configured in several ways, with the additional circuit handing either a reverse light signal (for a trailer coupler that has an electric lockout), for 12V auxiliary trailer power to maintain a trailer battery or for a trailer brake circuit. You can refer to the linked article for more on the various types of trailer connectors and wiring setups.

Your best bet is to install a 7-way on the Explorer so that you can then use 7-way equipped trailers directly. I recommend our # ETBC7 kit which contains all the parts you need to convert your 5-pole wiring to a 7-way. The kit also allows installation of a trailer brake controller like the P2 # 90885. The 7-way socket in this kit also includes a 4-pole connector.

expert reply by: Adam R